Overview
UK dealers anticipate a rebound in EV sales and improved stock availability in 2026, according to Startline Motor Finance’s December Used Car Tracker. Every factor rated by dealers recorded a net positive score, signaling guarded but broad-based optimism.
Key findings from dealers
- Electric vehicle sales: net +47%
- Stock availability: net +45%
- Used-car margins: net +30%
- Consumer confidence: net +25%
- Vehicle preparation costs: net +22%
- Staffing costs: net +12%
- General state of the economy: net +10%
- Premises costs: net +8%
Startline notes that the most optimistic scores are in areas that have recently been problematic—EV demand and available stock—while sentiment on household finances and the wider economy is positive but more muted.
Context
The December tracker surveyed 300 consumers and 60 dealers, with published results centered on dealer expectations. Startline highlights that recent months have shown improving sentiment and that these December readings support a gradually more confident outlook.
Operational implications for 2026
- Stronger EV demand and better stock flow could influence purchasing, stocking mix, and marketing plans for Q1.
- Expected gains in margins and lower prep costs may support profitability if realized.
- More cautious views on consumer confidence and macro conditions suggest dealers are not discounting potential headwinds.
Limitations and caveats
- Net scores indicate direction, not the scale of change or timing within 2026.
- No breakdowns by region, franchise status, vehicle type, or detailed distributions were published.
- Reasons behind improved EV outlook and expected stock sources were not specified.
- Consumer-side expectations for 2026 were not detailed in the published summary.
